Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ⅓ cup sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups chopped apples; ½ cup caramel sauce

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, rich caramel, and tart apples in these delightful Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious topping of caramel sauce, these bars are a crowd-pleaser for your Thanksgiving dessert table. Easy to make and even easier to love, they bring comfort and sweetness to your festive gatherings.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-05T15:15:32.555Z

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are more than just a dessert; they're a celebration of flavors! Combining the smooth richness of cheesecake with the comforting taste of caramel and apples, these bars are sure to become a favorite.

A Perfect Fall Treat

As the leaves turn and the air turns crisp, the flavors of fall become a cherished part of our culinary landscape. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars perfectly capture the essence of this season with their combination of sweet caramel, creamy cheesecake, and tart apples. These bars are not just a dessert; they embody the nostalgic flavors of autumn, making them a must-have for any gathering during this time of year.

Imagine hosting a cozy get-together and serving these delectable bars to your guests. The rich aroma of caramel and baked apples fills the room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast between the silky cheesecake and the crunchy graham cracker crust, offering a satisfying experience that evokes the comforts of home and togetherness.

Easy to Prepare

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. The steps are straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, you can whip up a batch of these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars in no time. This ease of preparation means you can enjoy more time with loved ones instead of spending hours in the kitchen.

Moreover, these bars can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for busy holiday weeks. Simply prepare and bake them, then store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This make-ahead capability allows you to plan ahead for your Thanksgiving or autumn festivities, ensuring that dessert is one less thing to worry about when hosting guests.

Versatile Serving Options

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic dessert choice for a variety of occasions. Whether it's Thanksgiving, a potluck, or a simple family dinner, these bars are sure to please. They can be served as a sweet ending to a meal or as a snack with coffee during afternoon gatherings.

To elevate the serving experience, consider pairing these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can even drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for those who crave an extra indulgence. With their rich flavors and delightful textures, these bars are bound to become a favorite at any event.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups chopped apples
½ cup caramel sauce

These ingredients come together to create a delicious dessert that everyone will enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.

Make the cheesecake filling

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped apples.

Assemble and bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, smoothing it out evenly.

Drizzle caramel sauce on top.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the center is set.

Let the bars cool before slicing and serving them!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftover Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, storing them properly is key to maintaining their freshness. Place the bars in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to five days. This will ensure that the crust remains crunchy and the filling stays creamy, ready for you to enjoy the next day.

You can also freeze the bars for longer storage. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This way, you can savor the flavors of this delightful dessert well beyond your initial baking adventure.

Customization Ideas

One of the beauties of baking is the opportunity for customization. While the original recipe boasts a delicious blend of caramel and apples, feel free to experiment with other fruits or flavors. Pears, for example, can be an excellent substitute for apples, offering a unique twist while still delivering that fall-inspired taste.

Additionally, spice lovers can enhance the cheesecake filling by adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg, further complementing the apple flavor. By customizing these bars to fit your taste, you can make them your own, turning them into a signature dessert that reflects your culinary creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What kind of apples should I use?

Tart apples like Granny Smith work well, but you can use any variety you prefer.